This section of the Manual is devoted to the careful reading, understanding, and faithful handling of Scripture. It equips ministers to approach the Bible with clarity, reverence, and responsibility by attending to its historical setting, literary form, and theological message. The goal is not speculation, but sound interpretation that honors the intent of the biblical authors and serves the Church faithfully.
Whether preparing sermons, teaching Bible studies, or responding to difficult questions, this section provides a stable foundation for interpreting God’s Word accurately and wisely.
This section focuses on how Scripture is read and understood. Formal doctrinal conclusions and systematic theology are addressed within the Doctrine and Theology section of the Manual.
Use this section as a reference as you study Scripture, prepare messages, and guide others toward a deeper and more faithful understanding of God’s Word.
One Sentence Memory Line The Epistle of James calls believers to demonstrate authentic faith through obedient action, wise speech, humble submission to God, and practical righteousness in everyday life. Historical Setting The Epistle of James is traditionally attributed to James, the brother of Jesus and leader …
Epistle to the Hebrews: A Ministerial Summary One Sentence Memory Line Hebrews proclaims that Jesus Christ is the final revelation of God, the perfect High Priest, and the once for all sacrifice who secures eternal redemption for His people. Historical Setting The Epistle to the Hebrews …
One Sentence Memory Line Paul’s letter to Philemon demonstrates how the gospel transforms relationships by calling believers to practice forgiveness, reconciliation, and brotherly love in Christ. Historical Setting The Epistle to Philemon is one of the shortest books in the New Testament, yet its theological and …
One Sentence Memory Line The Epistle to Titus teaches that sound doctrine must produce godly leadership, healthy churches, and transformed lives that reflect the grace of God. Historical Setting The Epistle to Titus was written by the Apostle Paul to his trusted co-worker Titus, whom Paul …
One Sentence Memory Line Paul’s final letter urges Timothy to guard the gospel, endure suffering for Christ, and faithfully pass the truth to the next generation of believers. Historical Setting Second Timothy is widely understood to be the final letter written by the Apostle Paul shortly …
One Sentence Memory Line Paul writes to Timothy to establish sound doctrine, godly leadership, and faithful pastoral ministry within the local church so that the household of God may remain anchored in truth. Historical Setting The First Epistle to Timothy belongs to what are traditionally known …
One Sentence Memory Line Second Thessalonians teaches believers to remain steadfast in persecution, reject deception about the Day of the Lord, and live disciplined lives while awaiting the return of Christ. Historical Setting Second Thessalonians was written by the apostle Paul, together with Silvanus and Timothy, …
One Sentence Memory Line 1 Thessalonians encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, love, and hope while awaiting the return of Jesus Christ. Historical Setting The First Epistle to the Thessalonians was written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 50 or 51, making it one of …
The New Testament is the second part of the Christian Bible and is composed of 27 books. Here is a list of the books of the New Testament in the traditional order: 1. Matthew 2. Mark 3. Luke 4. John 5. Acts 6. Romans 7. 1 …
Summary of The New Testament One Sentence Memory Line The New Testament proclaims the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ and establishes the foundation for the church’s mission, doctrine, and hope. Historical Setting The New Testament emerged during the first century within the complex …